Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Connected CE Purchase Rates Stable now but Show Steady Decline since 2008

Nearly one-half of all broadband households have a smart TV

Recent consumer research from Parks Associates reveals challenges manufacturers face as they seek to drive higher rates of purchase in the connected CE markets. 360 View: CE Adoption & Trends notes that while consumer intentions in 2017 mirror the levels of the previous two years, the long-term trend shows lower percentages of households buying CE than in the past, with purchasing rates dropping from 87% in 2008 to 74% in 2016. Low buying patterns for game consoles (12%), connected Blu-ray (5%), and DVRs (3%) contribute to the decline.

“Today, consumers are satisfied with many of their existing products, provided they are working well,” said Tricia Parks, President, CEO, and Founder, Parks Associates. “Many product categories are following predictable patterns. Consumers value their connected CE products, but there is no big purchase buzz except for personal assistants with voice, particularly the Amazon Echo. Its ‘wow factor’ is translating into true consumer excitement, interest, and adoption.”

Parks Associates finds smart speakers with personal assistants, such as the Amazon Echo/Dot/Tap and Google Home, earn the highest NPS (Net Promoter Score) of all surveyed CE devices. The excitement generated by the Amazon Echo has set off a round of competitive entries and new options.

According to Parks Associates, more broadly diffused broadband capability and saturation for flat screens and smartphones contribute to declining purchase rates for many CE categories. A lack of familiarity for innovations such as VR headsets and 4K TVs also contributes. 360 View: CE Adoption & Trends shows that broadband households now own an average of 8.1 connected CE products in their homes, a 76% growth in the average volume of devices since 2010. Many households are satisfied with what they have; manufacturers need to excite their markets with innovations.

70% of streaming media player owners report using their devices 1-3 times or more per week.

More information about this 360 View is available at www.parksassociates.com. To schedule an interview with an analyst or to request specific data, contact Elizabeth Parks at eparks@parksassociates.com, 972-996-0202.

About Parks Associates: Parks Associates is an internationally recognized market research and consulting company specializing in emerging consumer technology products and services. Founded in 1986, Parks Associates creates research capital for companies ranging from Fortune 500 to small start-ups through market reports, primary studies, consumer research, custom research, workshops, executive conferences, and annual service subscriptions.

The company's expertise includes the Internet of Things (IoT), digital media and platforms, entertainment and gaming, home networks, Internet and television services, digital health, mobile applications and services, support services, consumer apps, advanced advertising, consumer electronics, energy management, and home control systems and security.